Diaphragm check valve

ABSTRACT

A check valve, including a valve and a valve support surface, to permit a fluid to move through the check valve in a first direction and resist a fluid flow through the valve in a second direction, the valve having a valve diaphragm and an isolating bridge, with a portion of the valve engaging against valve support surface to resist deformation or stretching of the valve when a backflow of fluid into the check valve occurs. The valve support surface having a first support surface and a second support surface, and the valve positioned with the valve diaphragm spaced apart from the first support surface, and the isolating bridge spaced apart from the second support surface.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to controlling the direction of a fluidflow. More specifically, the present descriptions relate to control offluid flow using check valves.

Check valves are one-way valves that permit a fluid to move through avalve in a first direction and restrict a backflow fluid flow throughthe valve in a second direction, which is generally different than thefirst direction.

Check valves can be used in many types of application, including, pumps,such as piston-driven and diaphragm pumps; fluid systems for industrialprocesses, including chemical and power plants; fluid control systems,such as irrigation sprinklers and drip irrigation; and in medicalapplications, such as check valves for the heart ventricles, andintravenous fluid delivery.

A check valve can include a valve that is generally shaped as a flatdisk forming a diaphragm. The diaphragm can have a slit forming one ormore valve segment. The valve segments can engage against each other ina closed position to resist fluid flow through the valve, and the valvesegments can move, relative to each other, to open the valve and permita fluid flow through the valve.

Check valves can have a normally-closed configuration where the valve isin a closed position to resist fluid flow through the valve. The checkvalve can move to an open position to permit fluid therethrough by afluid pressure or engagement of a fluid against the valve. The pressureor force required to move the valve to the open position is known as thecracking pressure. The cracking pressure can be a pressure at the inlet,e.g., upstream, of the check valve at which a first indication of flowthrough the valve occurs. In some check valves, the valve is moved to anopen position when a positive pressure differential is applied to thevalve, for example, when a pressure upstream of the valve is greaterthan a pressure downstream of the valve.

In the open position, a check valve can permit fluid flow through thevalve with minimal pressure loss. The check valve can move to the closedposition when the positive pressure differential is decreased, removed,or reversed. In some instances, the inherent resilience of the valveenables the valve to move to the closed position. A negative pressuredifferential, e.g., when the fluid pressure downstream of the valve isgreater than the fluid pressure upstream of the valve, can cause thevalve to move to the closed position. In the closed position, a checkvalve can resist a backflow of fluid of at least 30 psi.

SUMMARY

A check valve can fail to function as intended when the valve does notmove to the closed position or does not resist a backflow of fluid. Acheck valve can fail to move to the closed position or resist a backflowof fluid when a particulate or debris becomes lodged in the valve oranother portion of the check valve.

Fluid pressure caused by fluid backflow acting upon the valve can causea portion of the valve to move into or engage against the housing or aretention feature, thereby causing the valve to stretch, thereby forminga gap between the valve segments or effecting intended operation of thecheck valve.

Further, failure of a check valve to function as intended can also becaused by engagement of the valve with a housing or other valveretention structure. The coupling of a valve with a housing may includea portion of the valve being compressed axially. For example, an outerperimeter or rim of the valve can be axially compressed. The axialcompression may direct a force toward the valve segments, causing thevalve segments to buckle or tent, thereby forming a gap between thevalve segments. Axial compression of the valve may also create a forceradially outward, causing the valve or valve segments to be pulledapart, thereby forming a gap between the valve segments.

Axial or radial force, directed toward the valve, can be adjusted toachieve a desired performance characteristic of the check valve.However, the axial or radial force can increase the cracking pressurebeyond the intended value. For example, a 0.5 inch valve having a 0.25inch diameter across the valve diaphragm can optimally seal withapproximately 0.0001 to 0.001 of radial compression of the valve.However, radial compression in excess of 0.001 inch may begin toadversely affect sealing between the valve segments causing the valve totent or form a passage therethrough. Practical manufacturing tolerancesfor a valve can be approximately 0.001 to 0.002 inch. If manufacturingtolerances for any portion of a valve, a valve housing, and retentionfeature are included, the combined variance in radial compression may bebetween about 0.002 to 0.004 inch, which can adversely affect sealingbetween the valve segments. Manufacturing is further complicated whenconsidering that maintaining manufacturing tolerances of less than 0.001inch may increase manufacturing costs, manufacturing effort, andincrease the rate of nonconforming check valves.

Other causes for a check valve failing to function as intended include,gaps formed in or between the valve segments as a result ofmanufacturing procedures, including, for example, operations to createslits through the valve diaphragm. Additionally, a check valve can failto function as intended include when the valve is not seated or coupledwith the housing as intended by the check valve design.

In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein is therealization that although check valves can be design with specificperformance characteristics, certain problems can occur withmanufacturing, assembly, and use of the check valve. For example,manufacturing variances can change the performance or operation of acheck valve, a check valve can be manufactured or assembled incorrectly,and debris from manufacturing or a fluid flow can become lodged in thecheck valve.

An aspect of the present disclosure provides a check valve assemblycomprising: a valve support surface having a first support surface and asecond support surface, the second support surface positioned radiallyoutward, relative to the first support surface; and a valve having: amounting rim; a valve diaphragm extending radially inward from themounting rim, and having a valve segment defined by a slit; and anannular isolating bridge extending between the mounting rim and thevalve diaphragm; wherein a distance from the first support surface tothe nearest surface of the valve diaphragm is greater than a distancefrom the second support surface to the nearest surface of the annularisolating bridge.

Some instances of the present disclosure provide a method of controllingflow through a check valve assembly comprising: defining a fluidpassageway having a valve support surface, wherein the valve supportsurface comprises a first support surface and a second support surface,the second support surface radially outward, relative to the firstsupport surface; positioning a valve adjacent to the valve supportsurface, wherein the valve comprises a valve diaphragm configured toresist a fluid flow through the fluid passageway, the valve diaphragmhaving a valve segment defined by a slit, and an annular isolatingbridge extending radially outward from the valve diaphragm; wherein,when the valve is moved toward the valve support surface, the isolatingbridge engages the second support surface before the valve diaphragmengages the first support surface.

Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be setforth in the description below, and in part will be apparent from thedescription, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology.The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attainedby the structure particularly pointed out in the written description andembodiments hereof as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and areintended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various features of illustrative embodiments are described below withreference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended toillustrate, but not to limit, the disclosure. The drawings contain thefollowing figures:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a diaphragm check valve,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional exploded view of a diaphragm check valve,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a housing of a diaphragm check valve,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another housing of a diaphragm checkvalve, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of a valve of a diaphragm check valve,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5B is a bottom perspective view of a valve of a diaphragm checkvalve, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5C is a side elevation view of a valve of a diaphragm check valve,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side view of the valve of FIG. 5C.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional detail view of the diaphragm check valve ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of a diaphragm check valve in an openposition, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of a diaphragm check valve in a closedposition, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is understood that various configurations of the subject technologywill become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from thedisclosure, wherein various configurations of the subject technology areshown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, thesubject technology is capable of other and different configurations andits several details are capable of modification in various otherrespects, all without departing from the scope of the subjecttechnology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings and detailed descriptionare to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description ofvarious configurations of the subject technology and is not intended torepresent the only configurations in which the subject technology may bepracticed. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitutea part of the detailed description. The detailed description includesspecific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understandingof the subject technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilledin the art that the subject technology may be practiced without thesespecific details. In some instances, well-known structures andcomponents are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuringthe concepts of the subject technology. Like components are labeled withsimilar element numbers for ease of understanding.

In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein is a checkvalve that can resist buckling or tenting of the valve by reducing thetransfer of forces, including axial and radial forces, from a housing orvalve retention feature toward the valve. For example, the forcetransferred to the valve diaphragm can be reduced, such that the valvediaphragm is sealed to resist fluid flow through the valve, yet thevalve diaphragm does not buckle or tent. Additionally, features of atleast some embodiments of the diaphragm check valve of the presentdisclosure can reduce cracking pressure of the valve.

In at least some embodiments disclosed herein, the device of the presentdisclosure can resist movement of a valve to prevent unintendedstretching or contact of the valve against the housing or other portionof the check valve. Further, at least some embodiments disclosed hereinprovide a check valve having reduced manufacturing complexity andreduced tolerance requirements.

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a diaphragm check valve 100according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The check valve100 can comprise a valve 102 and a valve support surface 104.Optionally, a valve housing 106 can comprise the valve support surface104. It should be understood that although the present disclosureincludes reference to a housing 106, the valve support surface 104 canbe formed as a portion of another structure adjacent to the valve 102.For example, the valve support surface 104 can be formed as a separatecomponent positioned within a fluid pathway and adjacent to a valve. Thevalve support surface 104 can be associated with a fluid pathway of adevice such as a pump, or within a heart ventricle. In another example,the valve support surface 104 can be formed as a portion of a surface ina device, such as a pump. In yet another example, the valve supportsurface 104 can be formed as a portion of the valve.

The valve 102 and the valve support surface 104 are positioned relativeto each other so that a portion of the valve 102 can engage against thevalve support surface 104 during at least a portion of operation of thevalve. For example, the valve 102 and the valve support surface 104 canbe oriented relative to each other so that a portion of the valveengages against the valve support surface 104 when the valve 102 is inan open position to permit fluid to move through the check valve 100.The valve 102 and the valve support surface 104 can also be orientedrelative to each other so that a portion of the valve 102 engagesagainst the valve support surface 104 when the valve 102 is in a closedpositon to restrict movement of fluid through the check valve 100.

The valve support surface 104 can include a first support surface 110and a second support surface 112. The first support surface 110 and thesecond support surface 112 are configured to be engaged against by aportion of the valve 102. In some embodiments, the valve support surface104 can include a third support surface 114 that is engaged against by aportion of the valve 102.

The valve 102 can include a valve diaphragm 118 with a valve segmentconfigured to permit or restrict fluid flow through the valve 102. Thevalve diaphragm 118 can be shaped as a disk or other planar shape. Anisolating bridge 120 can extend away from the valve diaphragm 118. Theisolating bridge 120 can extend away from the valve diaphragm 118 in adirection that is relative to a valve axis A that extends through acenter of the valve 102. For example, the isolating bridge 120 canextend radially outward from the valve diaphragm 118. In someembodiments, the isolating bridge 120 can extend axially away from thevalve diaphragm 118. The isolating bridge 120 can extend in a directionthat is any of parallel, perpendicular, and transverse to the valve axisA. Optionally, the valve 102 can include a mounting rim 122 that extendsaround the valve diaphragm 118. The mounting rim 122 can be positioned,relative to the valve diaphragm 118, so that the isolating bridge 120extends between the mounting rim 122 and the valve diaphragm 118.

The valve 102 can have a first end portion 124 and a second end portion126. When the valve 102 is coupled with a fluid passageway, for example,the fluid passageway 130 extends through the housing 106, the first andthe second end portion of the valve 102 can be oriented relative to thefluid passageway 130. The valve 102 can be oriented with the fluidpassageway 130 to define an upstream portion 132 of the fluidpassageway, adjacent to the first end portion 124 of the valve, and adownstream portion 134 fluid passageway, adjacent to the second endportion 126 of the valve. The first end portion 124, e.g., upstreamside, of the valve can be engaged against by a fluid flow in theupstream portion 132 of the fluid passageway, and the second end portion126, e.g., downstream side, of the valve can be engaged against by afluid flow in the downstream portion 134 of the fluid passageway.Further, any of the first end portion 124 and the second end portion 126of the valve can be engaged against by a backflow in the fluidpassageway 130.

Optionally, the valve 102 can be oriented with the fluid passageway 130so that the first end portion 124 and the second end portion 126 can beengaged against by any of an upstream and downstream fluid flow. Forexample, the valve 102 can be coupled with a fluid passageway wherein afluid flow can change directions.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the valve 102 is oriented adjacent to thevalve support surface 104 with the first end portion 124 facing thevalve support surface 104. The valve 102 is positioned with the valvediaphragm 118 aligned with the first support surface 110, and theisolating bridge 120 aligned with the second support surface 112. Themounting rim 122 is positioned to align with a retention feature of thevalve support surface 104 and/or a valve housing 106.

FIG. 1 illustrates the valve 102 in a closed or neutral position. In theclosed position, the valve 102 resists movement of a fluid through thecheck valve 100. Further, in the closed position, a portion of the valve102 can be spaced apart from the valve support surface 104. For example,the valve diaphragm 118 can be spaced apart from the first supportsurface 110, and the isolating bridge 120 can be spaced apart from thesecond support surface 112. Optionally, the isolating bridge 120 can bespaced apart from the third support surface 114.

When the valve 102 is moved to an open position, the valve segment canpermit movement of fluid through the valve 102. In the open position,fluid can move through the valve 102, from the upstream portion 132 ofthe fluid passageway to the downstream portion 134 of the fluidpassageway. The valve 102 can be moved to an open position by positivepressure against the first end portion 124 of the valve, relative to thesecond end portion 126 of the valve, or negative pressure against thesecond end portion 126 of the valve, relative to the first end portion124 of the valve.

When the valve 102 moves to an open position, the valve 102, or portionsthereof, can move relative to the valve support surface 104. Forexample, a portion of the valve diaphragm 118 can move away from thefirst support surface 110, and can permit a fluid to flow through thevalve. A portion of the isolating bridge 120 can move away from thesecond support surface 112. In some embodiments of the presentdisclosure, another portion of the isolating bridge 120 can move towardthe third support surface 114 when the valve 102 moves toward the openposition.

In some instances, a positive pressure against the second end portion126, relative to the first end portion 124, or a backflow through thedownstream portion 134 of the fluid passageway, causes the valve 102 tomove toward the closed position. Pressure acting against the valve 102can cause portions of the valve 102 to move relative to the valvesupport surface 104. For example, a backflow of fluid engaged againstthe second end portion 126 can cause a portion of the valve 102 to movetoward the first support surface 110. In some embodiments, the valvediaphragm 118 moves toward the first support surface 110, and theisolating bridge 120 moves toward the second support surface 112. Insome embodiments of the present disclosure, a portion of the isolatingbridge 120 moves away from the third support surface 114.

The check valve 100 can have a valve support surface positioned on anyof an upstream portion 132 of the fluid passageway and a downstreamportion 134 of the fluid passageway. In some embodiments of the presentdisclosure, the valve 102 can be positioned with the valve axis Aperpendicular or transverse to a direction of flow through the valve102. In some embodiments, a pre-filter or molded filtering features maybe fluidly coupled with the check valve 100 and the fluid passageway.For example, a pre-filter can be positioned upstream or downstream inthe passageway relative to the check valve 100.

FIGS. 2-3 illustrate an embodiment of a housing 106 for a check valve.The housing 106 can include an upstream valve housing 140 and adownstream valve housing 170. The upstream valve housing 140 and thedownstream valve housing 170 couple together to direct fluid through thecheck valve 100. Further, the valve 102 can couple with any of theupstream valve housing 140 and the downstream valve housing 170 toretain the valve 102 with the check valve 100, and to prevent movementof the valve mounting rim 122 relative to a portion of the housing 106.In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the check valve caninclude a unitary or monolithic housing, or a housing having one or moreportions coupled or formed together.

The upstream valve housing 140 is shaped as a body having an end portion142 and defining a fluid passage 130. The fluid passage can comprise theupstream portion 132 of the passageway that extends through the endportion 142. The upstream portion 132 of the passageway defines anupstream housing axis B. A fluid moving through the upstream portion 132of the passageway is directed toward or away from the upstream housingend 142.

The upstream valve housing 140 includes the valve support surface 104,or a portion thereof. The valve support surface 104 is defined by theend portion 142 of the upstream valve housing 140. The valve supportsurface 104 includes an annular channel 144 that extends into theupstream valve housing 140. The annular channel 144 can be shaped as atoroid that extends around the upstream valve housing axis B and intothe housing end 142. The channel 144 includes an inner wall 146 that isproximal or nearest to the upstream housing axis B. An outer wall 148 isspaced apart from inner wall 146, radially outward in a direction awayfrom the upstream housing axis B. A bottom surface 150 of the channelextends between the inner wall 146 and the outer wall 148, and forms thesecond support surface 112. In some embodiments, the inner wall 146forms the third support surface 114.

The annular channel 144 can have a cross-sectional shape with each ofthe inner wall 146 and the outer wall 148 can define a respective plane.The plane of the outer wall 148 extends transverse to the plane of theinner wall 146. The cross-sectional shape of the channel 144 can definea cross-sectional width that tapers away from the valve support surface104. The cross-sectional shape can be any regular or irregular shape,including, for example, a square, a trapezoid, and a circle. In someembodiments, the annular channel 144 can comprise a convex and/orconcave surface.

The bottom surface 150 of the annular channel 144 defines a length L1(FIG. 7) that extends between the between the inner wall 146 and theouter wall 148. The length L1 can be at least about 0.02 inch and/orless than or equal to about 0.5 inch. Further, the length L1 can also bebetween about 0.04 inch and about 0.1 inch. In some embodiments of thepresent disclosure, the length L1 is any length that is greater than across-sectional width of the isolating bridge 120.

A portion of the upstream housing end 142, radially inward of theannular channel 144 defines a support hub 152 that forms the firstsupport surface 110. The support hub 152 provides a surface for thevalve to engage against and prevent unintended opening of the valve 102.For example, when a downstream fluid moves toward the valve 102, e.g., abackflow, a portion of the valve can engage against support hub 152 toprevent the valve from opening.

The first support surface 110 defines a plane that is aligned with theouter surface of the upstream housing end 142. In some embodiments ofthe present disclosure, the first support surface 110 can be offset fromthe upstream housing end 142 along the upstream housing axis B. In someaspects of the present disclosure, any of the support hub 152 and thefirst support surface 110 can comprise a convex and/or concave surface.

The support hub 152 includes an outer side surface defined by the innerwall 146. The outer side surface of the support hub 152 can have across-sectional length L2 extending between opposing sides of the innerwall 146. The length L2 (FIG. 7) can be at least about 0.1 inch and/orless than or equal to about 1.0 inch. Further, the length L2 can also bebetween about 0.2 inch and about 0.4 inch.

The upstream portion 132 of the passageway extends through the upstreamhousing end 142 to permit a fluid to move toward or away from the valvesupport surface 104. The upstream portion 132 of the passageway includespassages 154 that extends through the support hub 152. The passages 154are oriented to extend through the first support surface 110.

The passages 154 form a longitudinal axis that are aligned relative toeach other and the upstream housing axis B. For example, thelongitudinal axis of each passage 154 is aligned parallel with eachother with the upstream housing axis B. In some embodiments, thepassages 154 are spaced apart around the upstream housing axis B andextend through the support hub 152

The passages 154 comprise an arcuate cross-sectional profile shape.However, in some embodiments, the passages 154 can comprise anycross-sectional profile shape, including a circle or square. In someaspects, the passages 154 extend through the upstream valve housing 140with a longitudinal axis that is transverse relative to the axis B. Inyet another embodiment, a passage 154 extends through another portion ofthe upstream valve housing 140. For example, a passage 154 can extendthrough any of the first support surface 110, the inner wall 146, theouter wall 148, and the third support surface 114.

A portion of the upstream housing end 142, radially outward of theannular channel 144 forms an annular first valve retention surface 158.The first valve retention surface 158 is configured to engage against aportion of the valve 102 to resist movement of the portion of the valverelative to the upstream valve housing 140.

The first valve retention surface 158 can be shaped as a flat surfacedefining a plane. The plane of the first valve retention surface 158 iscoincident with a plane defined by the upstream housing end 142. In someembodiments, the plane of the first valve retention surface 158 can beparallel or transverse to the upstream housing end 142. In some aspectsof the present disclosure, first valve retention surface 158 cancomprise a convex and/or concave surface.

When a valve 102 is coupled with the housing 106, the mounting rim 122of the valve is engaged against the first valve retention surface 158.The mounting rim 122 is axially compressed between the first valveretention surface 158 and another portion of the housing 106, forexample, a valve retention surface of the downstream valve housing 170.

Optionally, the housing 106 can include an annular valve retention wall160. The valve retention wall 160 is configured to engage against aportion of the mounting rim 122 to restrict movement of the mounting rim122 relative to the housing 106.

The valve retention wall 160 is positioned radially outward, relative tothe first valve retention surface 110 and the second support surface112. The valve retention wall 160 can extend way from the first valveretention surface 158. The valve retention wall 160 can have an innersurface 162 that faces toward the upstream housing axis B. The innersurface 162 of the valve retention wall 160 comprises a cross-sectionallength that is less than a cross-sectional length defined by the outersurface of the mounting rim 122.

When a valve 102 is coupled with the housing 106, the outer surface ofthe mounting rim 122 engages against the inner surface of the valveretention wall 160. Because the cross-sectional length of the innersurface 162 of the valve retention wall is less than a length defined bythe outer surface of the mounting rim 122, the mounting rim 122 iscompressed radially inward.

In some embodiments, the valve retention wall 160 can extend from any ofthe upstream and the downstream valve housing 170. In yet anotherembodiment, any of the annular valve retention surface 158 and valveretention wall 160 can be formed by a channel or groove of the housing106. In yet another embodiment, the valve retention wall 160 can be anyof a series continuous or discontinuous protrusions and/or dimples.

In some embodiments, the valve support surface 104 is coupled to any ofthe upstream valve housing 140 and the downstream valve housing 170. Insome aspects of the present disclosure, any of the upstream valvehousing 140 and the downstream valve housing 170 comprise the valvesupport surface 104. For example, a check valve 100 can have an upstreamvalve support surface to resist movement of the valve toward theupstream housing 140, and a downstream valve support surface to resistmovement of the valve toward the downstream housing 170.

The downstream valve housing 170 is shaped as a body having an endportion 172 and a fluid passage 130. The fluid passage can comprise thedownstream portion 134 of the passageway. The downstream portion 134 ofthe passageway extends through the end portion 172, defining an upstreamhousing axis C. A fluid moving through the downstream portion 134 of thepassageway is directed toward or away from the downstream housing end172.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the end portion 172 forms a second annularvalve retention surface 174 configured to engage a portion of the valve102. The downstream portion 134 of the passageway extends through theend portion 172, defining a downstream housing axis C.

The downstream portion 134 of the passageway includes a passage 178 thatextends through the end portion 172. The passage 178 is oriented toextend through the second annular valve retention surface 174. In someembodiments, the downstream portion 134 of the passageway forms aplurality of passages that extend through the end portion 172. Thepassage 178 comprises a length that extends from the end portion 172into the downstream valve housing 170. A cross-sectional width of thepassage 178 tapers away from the second annular valve retention surface174.

In some embodiments, a portion of the passage 178, distal to the secondannular valve retention surface 174, comprises an annular ridge 181 thatextends into the downstream portion 134 of the passageway. The annularridge 181 includes an inner surface defining a passage having across-sectional length or diameter. The annular ridge 181 can beconfigured to be engaged by a tube inserted into the downstream portion134 of the passageway. Accordingly, a cross-sectional length of thepassage through the annular ridge 181 is less than a cross-sectionallength of a tube configured to be inserted into the check valve 100. Insome embodiments, the diameter of the passage through the annular ridge181 is configured to resist or restrict a rate of fluid flow through thedownstream housing 170.

The second annular valve retention surface 174 includes a compressionridge 176 that is configured to direct a force toward the mounting rim122 of the valve. The compression ridge 176 extends from the secondannular valve retention surface 174 to engage against a portion of themounting rim 122 to restrict movement of the mounting rim 122 relativeto the housing 106.

The compression ridge 176 is shaped as a ridge that extends around thedownstream housing axis C, and protrudes away from the second annularvalve retention surface 174. The compression ridge 176 is positioned sothat when the downstream valve housing 170 is coupled with the upstreamvalve housing 140, the compression ridge 176 extends from the secondannular valve retention surface 174 toward the annular first valveretention surface 158.

The compression ridge 176 includes an outer surface that faces away thedownstream housing axis C. The outer surface of the compression ridge176 defines a cross-sectional length that is less than thecross-sectional length of the inner surface 162 of the valve retentionwall. As a result, the compression ridge 176 is positioned radiallyinward from the valve retention wall 160 when the upstream valve housing140 is coupled with the downstream housing 170.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the compression ridge 176can be a protrusion or series of protrusions that extend from the secondannular valve retention surface 174. In some embodiments, thecompression ridge 176 can be any of a convex and concave portion of thesecond annular valve retention surface 174 and/or valve support surface104.

The housing 106, or any portion thereof, can comprise a material that isconfigured to resist deformation during intended use of the check valve100. For example, any of the upstream housing 140 and the downstreamhousing 170 may be rigid relative to the valve 102. The housing 106 canbe more rigid than the valve 102, such that the housing 106 resistschanging shape or size when the valve 102 is urged against the housing106. In some embodiments, the material of the valve support surface 104is configured to resist deformation during intended use of the checkvalve 100. For example, the material of the valve support surface 104can be rigid relative to the valve 102.

The material of the housing 106 and/or the valve support surface 104 canbe any of a plastic, a metal, a glass, a rubber, a composite, and anycombination thereof. In some embodiments, the material can comprises anyof a polycarbonate, a polyoxymethylene, an acrylonitrile butadienestyrene, an acrylic, and a copolyester.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-6, a valve 102 of the check valve is illustrated.The valve 102 is configured to form a diaphragm between portions of thefluid passageway 130. Further, the valve 102 can resist a movement of afluid through the check valve 102, and can move to permit movement of afluid through the check valve 102.

The valve 102 can have a first end portion 124 and a second end portion126. The valve 102 includes a valve diaphragm 118, a mounting rim 122,and an isolating bridge 120. Although the valve 102 is illustrated ashaving a circular shape, the valve 102, and/or a portion thereof, can beany regular or irregular shape, including any of a circle, square,rectangle, and oval.

The valve diaphragm 118 is configured to permit or restrict fluid flowthrough the valve 102. The valve diaphragm 118 includes a valve segment180 that can resist a fluid flow through the valve 102, and can permit afluid flow through the valve 102. The valve segment 180 can beconfigured to move to resist a fluid flow through the valve 102, e.g., anormally open valve, or can move to permit a fluid flow through thevalve 102, e.g., a normally closed valve.

The valve segment 180 is formed by a slit 182 that extends through thevalve diaphragm 118. The slit 182 separates the valve diaphragm 118 intoone or more valve segment 180. Each valve segment can extend from anouter portion of the valve diaphragm 118 toward an inner portion of thevalve diaphragm 118, relative to a central valve axis D of the valve102.

The valve segment 180 can have a cross-sectional height that istransverse to a length of the valve between the inner portion and theouter portion of the valve diaphragm 118. The cross-sectional height ofthe valve segment 180 tapers toward the valve axis D. In someembodiments, the cross-sectional height of the valve segment 180 isconsistent along a length of the valve segment 180. In some embodiments,the cross-sectional height of the valve segment 180 tapers away from thevalve axis D.

The slit 182 extends through the valve diaphragm 118, between outer sidesurfaces of the valve diaphragm 118. For example, the slit 182 canextend through the valve diaphragm 118, between the first end portion124 and the second end portion 126 of the valve 102, and from the outerportion of the valve diaphragm 118 toward the inner portion of the valvediaphragm 118.

The valve diaphragm 118 can include more than one slit. For example, twoslits 182 can intersect, forming more than one valve segment 180. Insome embodiments, three slits extend radially outward, relative to avalve axis D. The slits 182 can be spaced apart forming valve segments180 having an approximately equal length and width.

The slit 182 extends through the valve 102, relative to the valve axis Dof the valve 102. More than one slit 182 can intersect at a pointcoincident with a valve axis D. However, it should be understood that aslit 182 can intersect at a point radially offset from a valve axis D.

The slit 182 can form a straight line, defining a plane that extendsthrough the valve diaphragm 118. However, in some embodiments, anyportion of a slit 182 can form any of a straight line, a curved line,and a line having alternating directions.

In some embodiments, the valve 102 includes two or more radial slitsthat form two or more petal-shaped valve segments that can open andclose together. As maximum deflection of the valve segments 180 canoccur at the center of the valve, e.g., the valve axis D, cumulativeopening from the sum of the valve segments 180 can permit mostparticulates or debris to move through the valve 102 without becomingstuck or lodged in the valve 102.

In some aspects of the present disclosure, the valve 102 can compriseany type of valve segment to permit or resist fluid flow through thevalve 102. For example, the valve 102 can include a hinged panel orplurality of layers configured to move to resist or permit a fluid flow.In another embodiment, the valve can be configured to be move whenengaged by a fluid flow, wherein the movement of the valve open and/orcloses a fluid passageway. In yet another embodiment, the valve can moveto trigger another portion of the check valve to open or close a fluidpassageway.

In some embodiments, the valve 102 includes a groove 184 that extendsalong a surface of the valve diaphragm 118 to increase the flexibilityand range of movement of a valve segment 180. In some embodiments, thegroove 184 can reduce or increase the cracking pressure of the valve102, relative to a valve without grooves.

In some instances, the groove 184 extends along the outer portion of thevalve diaphragm 118. The groove can extend into any of the first endportion 124 and the second end portion 126 of the valve 102. In someembodiments, the groove 184 can be shaped as any of a concave portion ofthe valve diaphragm 118 and a passage that extends through the diaphragm118. In some embodiments, the valve diaphragm 118 comprises a protrusionthat extend from any of the first end portion 124 and the second endportion 126 of the valve 102 to decrease the flexibility or range ofmovement of a valve segment 180.

The outer portion of the valve diaphragm 118 can include a protrusionconfigured to limit movement of the valve 102 relative to an adjacentstructure such as the housing 106. The protrusion extends from thesecond end portion 126 of the valve 102, away from the valve diaphragm118. The protrusion is shaped as an annular ridge 186 that extends alongthe outer portion of the valve diaphragm 118 and around the valve axisD.

The annular ridge 186 extends from the valve diaphragm 118 by a lengthL3. The length L3 can be at least about 0.001 inch and/or less than orequal to about 0.1 inch. Further, the length L3 can also be betweenabout 0.004 inch and about 0.04 inch.

The annular ridge 186 can include a cutout that extend from an outersurface, into the annular ridge 186. The cutout is a scallop cutout thatextends from a distalmost outer surface of the annular ridge 186 towardthe valve diaphragm 118. However, the cutout can be any of a notch,passage, and channel that extend into the annular ridge 186.

In some embodiments, the annular ridge 186 can define discontinuousprotrusions can extend away from the valve diaphragm 118. In someaspects, the valve 102 can comprise concentric protrusions or annularridges. In yet another embodiment, the check valve 100 can comprise aprotrusion that extends from the housing toward the valve 102 to resistmovement of the valve 102. In some embodiments, the annular ridge 186extends from any of the inner portion and the outer portion of the valvediaphragm 118.

In operation, the annular ridge 186 engages against the downstreamhousing 170 to resist movement of the valve 102. For example, when thevalve is in an open position, pressure against the upstream or first endportion 124 of the valve causes the valve diaphragm 118 to move towardthe downstream housing 170. To prevent unintended contact of the valvediaphragm 118 or a valve segment 180 against the downstream housing 170,the ridge 186 is configured to contact the downstream housing 170 beforea portion of the valve diaphragm 118.

Further, limiting movement of the valve 102 can limit the distance towhich the valve segments 180 can open. In some instances, the movementof the valve 102 is limited to resist opening the valve 102 more thannecessary to achieve the minimum desire flow rate, the ridge 186. As aresult, extraneous wear of the check valve 100 can be avoided.

The isolating bridge 120 of the valve is configured to resist thetransfer forces radially inward relative to the isolating bridge 120.For example, radially and/or axial forces can be directed from themounting rim 122 toward the valve diaphragm 118 when the valve 102 iscoupled with the housing 108. The isolating bridge 120 resists thetransfer of radial and axial forces toward the valve diaphragm 118,thereby preventing the valve segments 180 from becoming urged againsteach other and deformed or tenting, which can form gaps or passagesthrough the valve diaphragm 118.

The isolating bridge 120 is annularly shaped and extends between themounting rim 122 and the valve diaphragm 118. The isolating bridge 120can be toroid shape having an arcuate cross-sectional profile shape.

The isolating bridge 120 includes a first bridge wall 188 that extendsfrom the valve diaphragm 118 in a first direction, and a second bridgewall 189 that extends from the first bridge wall 188 in a seconddirection that is transverse to the first direction. The second bridgewall 189 extends from the first bridge wall 188 to the mounting rim 122.The intersection of the first and the second bridge wall can form anapex 191 of the isolating bridge. In some embodiments, the isolatingbridge 120 wall extends in a direction that is radially and axiallyoutward from the valve diaphragm 118.

The cross-sectional profile shape of the isolating bridge 120 defines awidth. The width of the isolating bridge 120 is configured to preventunintended contact between the isolating bridge and the support hub 152,which may otherwise cause the valve segments 180 to move apart andpermit flow through the valve 102.

To prevent contact between the isolating bridge 120 and the support hub152, the width of the isolating bridge 120 is less than across-sectional profile of the annular channel 144. For example, thewidth of the isolating bridge 120 is less than the length L1 of thebottom surface 150 of the annular channel 144 to prevent radially inwardforces from causing engagement of the isolating bridge 120 to engageagainst the support hub 152, at least when the valve 102 is in a neutralor closed position.

The isolating bridge 120 can optionally include a cutout that extendfrom an outer surface into a bridge wall. The cutout of the isolatingbridge 120 can contribute to the reduction of transfer of radial andaxial forces toward the valve diaphragm 118. Further, the cutout canreduce the rigidity of the isolating bridge 120 relative to otherportions of the valve 102.

The cutout is a scallop cutout that extends from outer surface at theapex 191 toward the valve diaphragm 118. However, the cutout can be anyof a notch, passage, and channel that extend into the isolating bridge120. Because the cutout forms an outer surface of the isolating bridge120 having discontinuities, less surface are of the isolating bridge 120engages against the second support surface 114.

In some embodiments, discontinuous protrusions can extend away from theisolating bridge 120. In some aspects, the check valve 100 can comprisea protrusion that extends from the housing or second support surface 114toward the isolating bridge 120. In some embodiments, a cutout extendsin a direction from any of the first end portion 124 and the second endportion 126 of the valve into the isolating bridge 120.

The mounting rim 122 is configured to engage against the housing orother retention feature to position the valve 102 in the check valve100. Further, the mounting rim 122 is coupled to the housing so that aforce is directed to the mounting rim 122 and moves toward the valvediaphragm 118 to maintain the valve segments 180 in a closed position.Accordingly, the mounting rim 122 can be compressed between surfaces ofthe housing 106, resulting in any of a radial and axial compressionforce directed to the mounting rim 122.

The mounting rim 122 is annularly shaped and extends radially outwardfrom the isolating bridge 120. The mounting rim 122 can be toroid shapehaving a cross-sectional profile shape. The cross-sectional profileshape can be any regular or irregular shape, including any of a circle,square, rectangle, and oval.

The cross-sectional profile shape also defines an radial inner surfaceand an radial outer surface of the mounting rim 122. The inner surfacefaces radially inward toward the valve diaphragm 118.

In some embodiments, the inner surface includes a circumferential groove190. The circumferential groove 190 extends along the circumference ofthe inner surface of the mounting rim 122. The circumferential groove190 can contribute to the reduction of transfer of radial and axialforces toward the valve diaphragm 118. In some aspects, thecircumferential groove 190 can increase ease of manufacturing andmanufacturing efficiency by providing a location for the valve 102 toengage against and remain affixed to a mold that forms the valve 102.

In some embodiments, a protrusion extends from an outer surface of themounting rim 122. The protrusion can extend radially outward from theouter surface of the mounting rim 122. A plurality of discontinuousradially extending protrusions can limit the transfer of radialcompression to the valve 102 over periodic segments. In someembodiments, the protrusions can be formed by scallop cutouts thatextend into the mounting rim 122. In some aspects, the scallop cutoutscan extends in a direction from the first end portion 124 and/or thesecond end portion 126 of the valve into a the mounting rim 122.

The mounting rim 122 can optionally include a protrusion that extends ina direction away from the first end portion 124 and/or the second endportion 126 of the valve. For example, the protrusion can extend towardany of the annular first valve retention surface 158 and the secondannular valve retention surface 174 when the valve 102 is coupled with ahousing 106.

The valve 102 can comprise any flexible or resilient material, and caninclude any of a plastic, a rubber, a composite, and any combinationthereof. A material of the valve 102 can include any of a thermosetmaterial, such as polyisoprene, and a thermoplastic material. In someembodiments of the present disclosure, the valve comprises a materialhaving a Shore hardness rating of at least about 20 and/or less than orequal to about 80.

In some embodiments, one or more portion of the valve 102 can comprise adifferent material or material characteristic than another portion. Forexample, the valve diaphragm 118, or any portion thereof, can comprise amaterial that is configured to resiliently deform during intended use ofthe check valve 100. In some aspects, the valve diaphragm 118 can bemore flexible, relative to the isolating bridge 120 and the mounting rim122, so that the valve diaphragm 118 is resiliently moved before anotherportion of the valve 102.

FIG. 7 illustrates the valve 102 in a closed or neutral position. Thevalve 102 is positioned adjacent to the valve support surface 104 withthe first end portion 124 of the valve facing the valve support surface104. The valve 102 is positioned with the valve diaphragm 118 adjacentto the first support surface 110, and the isolating bridge 120 adjacentto the second support surface 112.

The mounting rim 122 is positioned between the annular first valveretention surface 158 and the second annular valve retention surface174, and radially inward relative to the valve retention wall 160. Thefirst valve retention surface 158 and the second valve retention surface174 direct an axial compression force (A arrows) toward the mounting rim122. The valve retention wall 160 directs a radial compression force (Rarrow) toward the mounting rim 122.

The isolating bridge 120 reduces the axial and/or radial compressionforce transferred from the mounting rim 122 inward toward the valvediaphragm 118. For example, if the mounting rim 122 is compressedradially inward by about 0.004 inch, the isolating bridge 120 can causethe valve diaphragm 118 or other portion of the valve 102 to becompressed radially inward by about 0.0005 inch. The reduction of radialcompression directed toward the valve diaphragm 118 permits the valvesegments 180 to engage each other to seal or close the fluid passagewaythrough the valve 102, yet prevents the valve segments 180 from bucklingor tenting and thereby forming a gap between the valve segments 180.

The valve 102 and the valve support surface 104 are configured with aportion of the valve 102 spaced apart from a portion of the valvesupport surface 104. Spacing between portions of the valve 102 and thevalve support surface 104 ensure that the check valve operates asintended.

The first support surface 110 is spaced apart from the nearest surfaceof the valve diaphragm 118 by a distance L4, and the second supportsurface 112 is spaced apart from the nearest surface of the annularisolating bridge 120 by a distance L5. To prevent the valve diaphragm118 from engaging the first support surface 110, the distance L4 isgreater than the distance L5. The distance L5 can be at least about0.001 inches and/or less than or equal to about 0.1 inch. Further, thedistance L5 can also be between about 0.002 inch and about 0.04 inch. Insome embodiments of the present disclosure, the distance L5 is zeroinches.

In operation, when the valve 102 moves toward the valve support surface104, the isolating bridge 120 engages the second support surface 112before the valve diaphragm 118 can engage the first support surface 110.

The third support surface 114 is spaced apart from the nearest surfaceof the isolating bridge 120 by a distance L6. The distance L6 can be atleast about 0.001 inches and/or less than or equal to about 0.1 inch.Further, the distance L6 can also be between about 0.002 inch and about0.02 inch.

The space between the third support surface 114 and the isolating bridge120 can permit the valve 102 to receive any of a radial and an axialforce, yet resist engagement of the isolating bridge 120 against thethird support surface 114.

The annular ridge 186 is spaced apart from the nearest surface of thedownstream housing 170 by a distance L7. The distance L7 can be at leastabout 0.001 inches and/or less than or equal to about 0.1 inch. Further,the distance L7 can also be between about 0.004 inch and about 0.04inch.

In operation, when the valve 102 moves away from the valve supportsurface 104, the distance L7 can permit the valve diaphragm 118 to movetoward the downstream housing 170 and the valve to open, yet the annularridge 186 can engage against the downstream housing 170 to resistfurther movement of the valve 102.

Referring to FIG. 8A, the check valve 100 is illustrated in an openposition with a downstream fluid flow (D arrows) moving through thevalve 102. In the open position, a downstream fluid flow D can move fromthe upstream portion 132 of the passageway, through the passages 154 andvalve 102, toward the downstream portion 134 of the passageway.

In the open position, a pressure from the fluid has engaged against thefirst end portion 124 of the valve 102, and caused at least a portion ofthe valve 102 to move away from the valve support surface 104 toward thedownstream housing 170. More specifically, the valve segments 180 havebeen urged toward the downstream housing 170. A portion of the valvesegments 180 have moved, relative to each other, to form a fluidpassageway through the valve 102.

The pressure engaged against the first end portion 124 of the valve 102can cause the valve diaphragm 118 to move toward the downstream housing170. As the valve diaphragm 118 moves toward the downstream housing 170,the distance L7, between the annular ridge 186 and the downstreamhousing 170 decreases. Optionally, the distance L7 can be configured sothat the annular ridge 186 engages against the passage 178 when apressure against the first end portion 124 of the valve exceeds thedesired pressure or flow through the valve 102. In some embodiments,when the annular ridge 186 engages against the downstream housing 170,further opening or movement of the valve segments 180 toward thedownstream housing 170 is resisted. Optionally, engagement of theisolating bridge 120 against a support surface, for example, the thirdsupport surface 114, can limit movement of the valve 102 relative to thevalve support surface 104.

By limiting movement of the valve 102 in the open position, damage tothe valve can be prevented. For example, fluid flow or pressure cancause the valve 102, or the valve diaphragm 118, to become stretched ordeformed. Further, contact of the valve diaphragm 118 against anotherportion of the check valve 100, or other structure, can cause damage orchanges in operational characteristics. Limiting movement of the valve102 in the open position can resist damage or unintended changes inoperation of the valve 102. In the open position, the valve diaphragm118 permits a fluid to move through the valve 102, from the upstreamportion 132 of the passageway toward the downstream portion 134 of thepassageway.

Referring to FIG. 8B, the check valve 100 is illustrated in a closedposition with a downstream fluid flow (U arrows). The downstream fluidflow U can be cause by a backflow of fluid from the downstream portion134 of the passageway toward the valve 102. The downstream fluid flow Ucan direct a pressure against the valve 102, causing any of the valvesegments 180, the valve diaphragm 118, and the isolating bridge 120 tomove toward the first support surface 104.

When the valve segments 180 move toward the first support surface 104,the valve segments 180 engage each other to close the fluid passagethrough the valve 102. Further movement of the valve diaphragm 118toward the first support surface 104 can cause the valve diaphragm 118and/or the valve segments 180 to engage against the first supportsurface 110. Engagement of the valve diaphragm 118 against the firstsupport surface 110 can assist with maintaining the valve diaphragm inthe closed position. However, engagement of the valve diaphragm 118against the first support surface 110 can also cause the valve tostretch and a passage through the valve diaphragm 118 to open, therebypermitting fluid flow through the valve 102.

To resist opening of the valve 102 or stretching of the valve diaphragm118 in the closed position, a portion of the valve 102 engages the valvesupport surface 104 to resist movement of the valve 102 and preventdamage to the valve 102. More specifically, the isolating bridge 120engages against the second support surface 112 before the valvediaphragm 118 engages against the first support surface 110. In someembodiments, engagement of the isolating bridge 120 against the secondsupport surface 112 prevents the outer portion of the valve diaphragm118 from engaging against the first support surface 110.

Engagement of the isolating bridge 120 against the second supportsurface 112 can prevent pressure engaged against valve from causingdamage or a change in operation to the valve diaphragm 118. Damage or achange in operation to the valve diaphragm 118 can occur when engagementof the valve diaphragm 118 against the second support surface 110 causesthe valve diaphragm 118 to stretch or deform, thereby creating a fluidpassage between the valve segments 180, and permitting a fluid flow(e.g., backflow) to move through the valve 102.

Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses

Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numberedclauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples,and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figuresand reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and forillustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by thoseidentifications.

Clause 1. A check valve assembly comprising: a valve support surfacehaving a first support surface and a second support surface, the secondsupport surface positioned radially outward, relative to the firstsupport surface; and a valve having: a mounting rim; a valve diaphragmextending radially inward from the mounting rim, and having a valvesegment defined by a slit; and an annular isolating bridge extendingbetween the mounting rim and the valve diaphragm; wherein a distancefrom the first support surface to the nearest surface of the valvediaphragm is greater than a distance from the second support surface tothe nearest surface of the annular isolating bridge.

Clause 2. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, comprising an annularfirst valve retention surface and a second annular valve retentionsurface, the first and second valve retention surface positionedradially outward, relative to the second support surface.

Clause 3. The check valve assembly of Clause 2, wherein the mounting rimcomprises a first end surface and a second end surface, opposite thefirst end surface, and wherein the first valve retention surface engagesagainst the first end surface, and the second valve retention surfaceengages against the second end surface, to axially compress the mountingrim therebetween.

Clause 4. The check valve assembly of Clause 2, wherein any of the firstand second valve retention surface comprises a compression ridge thatextends toward the other of the first and second valve retentionsurface.

Clause 5. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, comprising an annularvalve retention wall that is positioned radially outward, relative tothe second support surface, wherein the annular valve retention wallengages against an outer surface of the mounting rim to direct themounting rim radially inward.

Clause 6. The check valve assembly of Clause 5, wherein an inner surfaceof the annular valve retention wall comprises a cross-sectional lengththat is less than a cross-sectional length defined by the outer surfaceof the mounting rim.

Clause 7. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, comprising a fluidpassageway that extends through the first support surface.

Clause 8. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the valvediaphragm comprises an outer portion and an inner portion, and the valvesegment extends from the outer portion toward the inner portion.

Clause 9. The check valve assembly of Clause 8, wherein the valvediaphragm comprises an annular groove extending between the outer andinner portion.

Clause 10. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the valvediaphragm comprises a first end portion and a second end portion, and aprotrusion that extends away from the second end portion.

Clause 11. The check valve assembly of Clause 10, wherein the protrusionis an annular ridge that extends along an outer portion of the valvediaphragm.

Clause 12. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the annularisolating bridge comprises an arcuate cross-sectional profile.

Clause 13. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the annularisolating bridge comprises a first bridge wall extending from themounting rim in a first direction, and a second bridge wall extendingfrom the first bridge wall in a second direction transverse to the firstdirection.

Clause 14. The check valve assembly of Clause 13, wherein the secondbridge wall extends from the first bridge wall to the valve diaphragm.

Clause 15. The check valve assembly of Clause 13, wherein an apex of theannular isolating bridge is formed by an intersection of the firstbridge wall and the second bridge wall.

Clause 16. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the annularisolating bridge comprises an outer surface having a scallop cutout.

Clause 17. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the annularisolating bridge comprises an outer surface having a protrusion.

Clause 18. The check valve assembly of Clause 1, wherein the valvesupport surface comprises an annular channel having a channel wallextending between the first support surface and a bottom surface.

Clause 19. The check valve assembly of Clause 18, wherein the channelwall defines a third support surface, and the bottom surface defines thesecond support surface.

Clause 20. A method of controlling flow through a check valve assemblycomprising: defining a fluid passageway having a valve support surface,wherein the valve support surface comprises a first support surface anda second support surface, the second support surface radially outward,relative to the first support surface; positioning a valve adjacent tothe valve support surface, wherein the valve comprises a valve diaphragmconfigured to resist a fluid flow through the fluid passageway, thevalve diaphragm having a valve segment defined by a slit, and an annularisolating bridge extending radially outward from the valve diaphragm;wherein, when the valve is moved toward the valve support surface, theisolating bridge engages the second support surface before the valvediaphragm engages the first support surface.

Further Considerations

In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend from any oneof the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In oneaspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) maybe combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent orindependent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all ofthe words (e.g., steps, operations, means or components) recited in aclause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, a claim mayinclude some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses,sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words ineach of the clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs may be removed. Inone aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, asentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technologymay be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements,functions or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subjecttechnology may be implemented utilizing additional components, elements,functions or operations.

The foregoing description is provided to enable a person skilled in theart to practice the various configurations described herein. While thesubject technology has been particularly described with reference to thevarious figures and configurations, it should be understood that theseare for illustration purposes only and should not be taken as limitingthe scope of the subject technology.

There may be many other ways to implement the subject technology.Various functions and elements described herein may be partitioneddifferently from those shown without departing from the scope of thesubject technology. Various modifications to these configurations willbe readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and generic principlesdefined herein may be applied to other configurations. Thus, manychanges and modifications may be made to the subject technology, by onehaving ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the scope ofthe subject technology.

It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in theprocesses disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Basedupon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order orhierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the stepsmay be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims presentelements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to belimited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a series ofitems, with the term “and” or “or” to separate any of the items,modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list (i.e.,each item). The phrase “at least one of” does not require selection ofat least one of each item listed; rather, the phrase allows a meaningthat includes at least one of any one of the items, and/or at least oneof any combination of the items, and/or at least one of each of theitems. By way of example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or“at least one of A, B, or C” each refer to only A, only B, or only C;any combination of A, B, and C; and/or at least one of each of A, B, andC.

Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear” and the like as used inthis disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frameof reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame ofreference. Thus, a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and arear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, orhorizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the likeis used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to beinclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” isinterpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

In one or more aspects, the terms “about,” “substantially,” and“approximately” may provide an industry-accepted tolerance for theircorresponding terms and/or relativity between items.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example,instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as“exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other embodiments.

A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “oneand only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.”Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neutergender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. The term “some” refers to oneor more. Underlined and/or italicized headings and subheadings are usedfor convenience only, do not limit the subject technology, and are notreferred to in connection with the interpretation of the description ofthe subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to theelements of the various configurations described throughout thisdisclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinaryskill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference andintended to be encompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothingdisclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless ofwhether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description.

Although the detailed description contains many specifics, these shouldnot be construed as limiting the scope of the subject technology butmerely as illustrating different examples and aspects of the subjecttechnology. It should be appreciated that the scope of the subjecttechnology includes other embodiments not discussed in detail above.Various other modifications, changes and variations may be made in thearrangement, operation and details of the method and apparatus of thesubject technology disclosed herein without departing from the scope ofthe present disclosure. Unless otherwise expressed, reference to anelement in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one”unless explicitly stated, but rather is meant to mean “one or more.” Inaddition, it is not necessary for a device or method to address everyproblem that is solvable (or possess every advantage that is achievable)by different embodiments of the disclosure in order to be encompassedwithin the scope of the disclosure. The use herein of “can” andderivatives thereof shall be understood in the sense of “possibly” or“optionally” as opposed to an affirmative capability.

What is claimed is:
 1. A check valve assembly comprising: a valve support surface having a first support surface and a second support surface, the second support surface positioned radially outward, relative to the first support surface; and a valve having: a mounting rim; a valve diaphragm extending radially inward from the mounting rim, and having a valve segment defined by a slit; and an annular isolating bridge extending between the mounting rim and the valve diaphragm; wherein the first support surface is spaced apart from the nearest surface of the valve diaphragm in a first direction by a first distance, and the second support surface is spaced apart from the nearest surface of the annular isolating bridge in the first direction by a second distance, and wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance such that, when the valve moves toward the valve support surface, the isolating bridge engages against the second support surface before the valve diaphragm engages the first support surface.
 2. The check valve assembly of claim 1, comprising a fluid passageway that extends through the first support surface.
 3. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the annular isolating bridge comprises an arcuate cross-sectional profile.
 4. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the annular isolating bridge comprises an outer surface having a scallop cutout.
 5. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the annular isolating bridge comprises an outer surface having a protrusion.
 6. The check valve assembly of claim 1, comprising an annular valve retention wall that is positioned radially outward, relative to the second support surface, wherein the annular valve retention wall engages against an outer surface of the mounting rim to direct the mounting rim radially inward.
 7. The check valve assembly of claim 6, wherein an inner surface of the annular valve retention wall comprises a cross-sectional length that is less than a cross-sectional length defined by the outer surface of the mounting rim.
 8. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve diaphragm comprises an outer portion and an inner portion, and the valve segment extends from the outer portion toward the inner portion.
 9. The check valve assembly of claim 8, wherein the valve diaphragm comprises an annular groove extending between the outer and inner portion.
 10. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve diaphragm comprises a first end portion and a second end portion, and a protrusion that extends away from the second end portion.
 11. The check valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the protrusion is an annular ridge that extends along an outer portion of the valve diaphragm.
 12. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve support surface comprises an annular channel having a channel wall extending between the first support surface and a bottom surface.
 13. The check valve assembly of claim 12, wherein the channel wall defines a third support surface, and the bottom surface defines the second support surface.
 14. The check valve assembly of claim 1, comprising an annular first valve retention surface and an annular second valve retention surface, the first and second valve retention surfaces positioned radially outward, relative to the second support surface.
 15. The check valve assembly of claim 14, wherein the mounting rim comprises a first end surface and a second end surface, opposite the first end surface, and wherein the first valve retention surface engages against the first end surface, and the second valve retention surface engages against the second end surface, to axially compress the mounting rim therebetween.
 16. The check valve assembly of claim 14, wherein any of the first and second valve retention surfaces comprises a compression ridge that extends toward the other of the first and second valve retention surfaces.
 17. The check valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the annular isolating bridge comprises a first bridge wall extending from the mounting rim in a first direction, and a second bridge wall extending from the first bridge wall in a second direction transverse to the first direction.
 18. The check valve assembly of claim 17, wherein the second bridge wall extends from the first bridge wall to the valve diaphragm.
 19. The check valve assembly of claim 17, wherein an apex of the annular isolating bridge is formed by an intersection of the first bridge wall and the second bridge wall.
 20. A method of controlling flow through a check valve assembly comprising: defining a fluid passageway having a valve support surface, wherein the valve support surface comprises a first support surface and a second support surface, the second support surface radially outward, relative to the first support surface; and positioning a valve adjacent to the valve support surface, wherein the valve comprises a valve diaphragm configured to resist a fluid flow through the fluid passageway, the valve diaphragm having a valve segment defined by a slit, and an annular isolating bridge extending radially outward from the valve diaphragm; wherein, the first support surface is spaced apart from the valve diaphragm in a first direction by a first distance, and the second support surface is spaced apart from the annular isolating bridge in the first direction by a second distance, the first distance is greater than the second distance, and when the valve is moved in the first direction toward the valve support surface, the isolating bridge engages the second support surface before the valve diaphragm engages the first support surface. 